OTTAWA, ONTARIO (August 27, 2009) - The Wabaseemoong First Nation has awarded the contract to build its new school to Penn-Co Construction Canada Ltd. This project was made possible through Canada's Economic Action Plan.
Greg Rickford, Member of Parliament for Kenora, made the announcement on progress on the school on behalf of the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development and Federal Interlocutor for Métis and Non-Status Indians.
"First Nation youth deserve the best possible education facilities in which to learn and further develop their skills," said MP Rickford. "This Government is committed to improving access to education for First Nation youth and stimulating economic growth through targeted infrastructure investments like this school."
The Government of Canada has allocated approximately $25 million to build the new Kindergarten to Grade 12 facility that will accommodate 460 students. Construction of the school will begin in 2009-2010 and is expected to be complete in 2010-2011. The Wabaseemoong First Nation is located approximately 95 kilometres northwest of Kenora, Ontario.
This project is part of the $200 million for new schools and major renovations included in the $1.4 billion investment for Aboriginal peoples under Canada's Economic Action Plan. The Government of Canada is taking action to improve the lives of First Nations by investing in educational facilities that will provide lasting, sustainable benefits to First Nation communities.
For more information, please contact:
Office of the Honourable Chuck Strahl
Press Secretary
819-997-0002
Media Relations
Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
819-953-1160
